UV Index in Minamata, Japan

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Minamata, Japan, as it provides essential information on how to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With the UV levels often peaking at a dangerous 12 during midday, awareness of these indices can help prevent painful sunburn and long-term skin damage. Minamata’s Cfa climate brings warm summers and moderate winters, which can lead to increased UV exposure risks, especially during peak hours. By staying informed on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor settings of Minamata while safeguarding your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in Minamata

At dawn, the UV Index starts low at 1 around 07:00, making it a gentle introduction to the day. As the sun rises higher, the intensity increases rapidly, peaking at 12 by 12:00—perfect for sunbathers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking that golden glow. The midday sun commands attention, with values reaching 11 at 11:00 and 13:00, encouraging sun safety precautions. As the afternoon rolls in, the UV Index begins to wane, dropping to 9 at 14:00 and further to 4 by 16:00. By evening, the UV exposure diminishes significantly, settling back to 1 by 19:00, ushering in a gentle dusk. It’s essential to stay informed and safeguard against the sun’s rays, especially during those peak midday hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Minamata

Throughout the year, the UV Index shows notable seasonal changes, with the highest risk occurring from March to September. During these months, the index reaches extreme levels, particularly peaking in August with a UV Index of 13. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during high-risk months and, ideally, limit direct sun exposure to less than 10 minutes daily between April and September. In contrast, the UV Index is relatively moderate in January and December, with burn times of 30 minutes. To minimize the risk of skin damage, it is essential to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak hours from late morning to early afternoon.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Minamata, Japan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Minamata. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Minamata, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Minamata UV Index with Other Japan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Minamata compares to other major locations across Japan. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Minamata's solar exposure compared to other cities in Japan. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Sapporo UVI	2	3	6	7	9	9	9	10	8	5	3	2
Yokohama UVI	3	5	8	9	11	11	11	11	10	7	5	4
Tokyo UVI	3	5	8	9	11	11	11	11	10	7	5	4
Nagoya UVI	4	6	8	10	11	11	11	11	10	7	5	3
Osaka UVI	4	6	8	11	11	11	12	11	10	7	5	3
Minamata	5	6	9	11	12	12	12	13	11	8	6	4